“You have been violating Copyright and Related Rights Law (Video, Music, Software) and illegally using or distributing copyrighted content, thus infringing Article I, Section 8, Clause 8, also known as the Copyright of the Criminal Code of United States of America.”

Here’s how one of the victims described an incident:

“The window was labeled FBI and said I was in violation of one of the following: illegal use of downloaded media, under-age [expletive] viewing, or computer-use negligence.

“It listed fines and penalties for each and directed me to pay $200 via a MoneyPak order. Instructions were given on how to load the card and make the payment. The page said if the demands were not met, criminal charges would be filed and my computer would remain locked on that screen.”

Some variants take over the webcam, take a picture of the computer’s owner, and display it on the locked screen.

The organization issued a warning regarding Reveton in May 2012, but the number of infections has increased considerably since.

“Some people have actually paid the so-called fine. We are getting dozens of complaints every day,” said Donna Gregory of the IC3.

It’s highly recommended that users don’t give in to the demands made by the crooks. The best thing to do is to call a professional to remove the malware, and file a complaint on the IC3’s website.

Experts said the worst thing one can do is actually pay the fine demanded by the malicious element. They also warn ransomware like this can still operate in the background even if the user manages to unlock the device.